A smile is such a simple gesture, yet it holds so much power. It is innately human - a universal way to convey happiness, greet one another and signal that we're nice people. Smiles communicate how we're feeling and are great for breaking the ice or awkward moments. A good-natured smile moves mountains, but if you're like the average person, it may not be perfect. And that's okay. But is it healthy?
Studies from the CDC show that 1 in 4 U.S. adults from 20 to 64 have cavities. Perhaps even more surprising is that approximately 34 million school hours are lost every year due to emergency dental care. For children, missing time could mean the difference between moving forward and being held back.
If you're one of the many people who feel ashamed about their teeth, need preventative oral care, or suffer serious issues like tooth decay, it's time to protect your teeth and gums. Luckily, Merchants Walk Dental is here to serve you with the highest quality dental work in East Cobb, from preventative care to cosmetic dentistry.
At Merchants Walk Dental, your healthy teeth and gums are our passion. Our dentists and hygienists are committed to providing you with the best dental care possible in a comfortable, stress-free setting. Since opening in 2017, we have become the premier dentist in Mountain Park, GA, offering many dental services such as:
As experts, we know how important oral hygiene is for your health. We feel that it's important to go the extra mile to speak with our patients about the best practices involved with brushing, flossing, and healthy gums. We know what an impact a beautiful smile can make, which is why we are so dedicated to providing our patients with cleaner, straighter teeth than ever before.
Having served Georgia and East Cobb for years, we understand that no two patients will ever have the same needs. That's why we provide personalized services like cleanings and root canals tailored to each patient's unique needs. We also know that money doesn't grow on trees, so we accept most major dental insurance plans to ensure you can keep your teeth clean and healthy all year long.
If you're searching for an expert team of friendly dentists and hygienists, look no further than Merchants Walk Dental. We pride ourselves on the best dental care coupled with warm, engaging customer service. You can rest easy knowing you're in capable, welcoming hands whether it's your first or fortieth visit to our office.
Here at Merchants Walk Dental, we understand that getting your teeth cleaned isn't something everyone looks forward to. However, getting regular teeth cleanings performed by a trustworthy dentist is the best way to maintain a healthy smile and avoid serious oral hygiene issues. And while it's easy to avoid the dentist, doing so for too long can be bad for your overall health.
Studies have linked poor oral hygiene to serious problems like cancer, cardiovascular disease, bone loss, and strokes. If you're flossing and brushing at home twice a day, that's great. Doing so is the best way to get a leg up on critical oral hygiene problems. However, getting your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist helps ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned, healthy, and protected.
It's a question we get all the time - what is periodontal treatment? This treatment focuses on your gums and preventing the common diseases that attack them. When left unchecked, plaque accumulates and hardens, forming hard-to-remove tartar. This tartar irritates your gums and will eventually lead to a litany of problems like tooth decay, tooth loss, and more.
During your teeth cleaning session at Merchants Walk Dental, we'll examine your gums closely to ensure they're healthy and functional.
Each of our teeth cleaning appointments has comprehensive check-ups, including:
The only surefire way to prevent tartar buildup and, by proxy, gum disease is by brushing and flossing diligently at home. If you have been slacking on regular brushing and have not visited a dentist recently, your gums could be suffering. If you have any of the following signs of gum disease, contact Merchants Walk Dental to schedule a dental exam in Mountain Park, GA:
If you have had a cavity filled before, you're not alone. Tooth decay affects more than 90% of adults over the age of 40 - a stunning statistic that, in many cases, is entirely preventable. At Merchants Walk Dental, we use composite resin fillings to keep our patient's teeth healthy and functional. Unlike amalgam fillings, composite fillings are more discreet, match the color of your teeth, and are free of mercury.
While fillings can have a few uses, our doctors typically use fillings to “fill†a part of your tooth that is decaying. This hole of decay is called a cavity. Sometimes, fillings are also used to fix broken, cracked, or worn-down teeth from grinding and nail-biting. Fillings are a great way to restore decaying teeth to their normal shape and function while preventing sensitivity and inhibiting further decay.
During your dental exam at our office in East Cobb, your dental hygienist will check for signs of cavities and tooth decay to ensure your oral hygiene remains in peak condition.
Abscesses- Without professional dental treatment, infected teeth lead to dental abscesses, which can be fatal if left untreated.
Nerve Pain- When your tooth is cracked and left without treatment, it can make its way to your nerve, resulting in extreme pain and damage.
Substantial Decay- If you leave an infection to fester without having a root canal, the infection can spread to other teeth in your mouth. If you don't address the initial signs of decay, you'll have to undergo treatment for multiple teeth.
Tooth Loss- Extensive decay and trauma often cause damage to your tooth's pulp. Our root canal treatments in Mountain Park remove this infected pulp. However, if you choose to ignore the problem, the infected pulp will rot your entire tooth, causing you to lose it forever.
One mention of the word root canal can send shivers up the spine for many people. Root canals get a bad rap, but the treatment has come a long way over the last decade.
When tooth decay and infection are left to fester, it can wreak havoc on your oral hygiene. Often, root canals in cityname, GA, are the best choice for patients with extensively diseased teeth. The goal of a root canal is to save and repair teeth by removing the infection from the pulp and nerve of the tooth.
Signs of tooth decay that may require a root canal include:
When a substantial cavity threatens a person's tooth and fillings aren't working, many dentists will use crowns to fix the problem. A crown is an aesthetic cap or a tooth-shaped covering placed over another tooth or implant for stability. Typically, crowns improve appearance and strength of a patient's teeth.
Crowns are also used to restore the size and shape of damaged or chipped teeth. When used for this purpose, dental crowns are usually bonded to the tooth using dental-grade cement.
During your dental exam and cleaning, your hygienist will keep a sharp eye out for signs of tooth decay, which may require a crown. Benefits of dental crows from Merchants Walk Dental include:
Restorative dental treatments can be complicated, but dental crowns are straightforward and minimally invasive. During the process, your tooth's enamel is cleaned, and your damaged tissue is removed. Once that process is complete, we'll cast a custom crown for your tooth. While the crown is created, Dr. John Bishara or Dr. Milli Patel will provide you with a temporary crown for normal functionality.
Damaged enamel or structural damage can cause pain and sensitivity. Having a dental crown installed will help alleviate a good amount of your pain.
Our dental crowns are made with high-quality, long-lasting materials. With proper care and regular check-ups, they can withstand years of chewing, biting, and grinding.
When you lose one or more teeth, whether due to decay or another factor, it's important to fill the space where the tooth is missing. That's where dental bridges come in. Bridges are essentially fake permanent teeth used to fill holes caused by missing teeth. The false tooth is fused between two dental crowns giving it the bridge concept. Dental bridges are then typically anchored to healthy teeth using resin and cement.
The health of your teeth, their position, and the state of the surrounding bone will help our team determine if bridges are right for you. If not, dentures in Mountain Park, GA, might be a better option. Dentures come in two forms: partial and complete. Dentures are best for patients who have missing teeth but aren't able to use bridges. Complete dentures all your missing teeth, while partial dentures replace one or two teeth.
Getting cosmetic dentures can be a life-changing experience. It often requires physical and emotional preparation. At Merchants Walk Dental, our team will take as much time needed to consult with and prepare you for your denture procedure.
Whether you need dental bridges or cosmetic dentures, we're here to help make your experience as seamless and stress-free as possible.
Dental implants are needed when you have missing teeth, but you cannot or will not get crowns, bridges, or dentures. Failing to replace a lost tooth will cause a bevy of problems as time goes on. For many patients, dental implants are the best option for replacing missing teeth. With dental implants, you can replace a single tooth or multiple teeth. A dental implant serves as a permanent artificial root anchored into the jawbone.
When our team puts a dental implant in place, your jawbone grafts itself to the titanium post making it as strong as your original root and tooth. The result is a natural, beautiful, fully-functional set of teeth that lasts for years.
Establishing healthy dental habits early in life is key for long-term oral health and confidence. The best way to learn those habits is at home and in a dentist's office.
At Merchants Walk Dental, our goal is to foster long-lasting relationship with the families in our community who trust us to care for their children's dental health.
When you choose Merchants Walk Dental as your child's dentist, you can rest easy knowing we treat your loved one just like ours. Our professional hygienists and experienced doctors are trained and certified to give your kids a comfortable dental experience. We like to mix fun with education, putting your child at ease while helping them understand the importance of proper dental care.
Common habits like teeth grinding and thumb sucking can have profound effects later in life. Our doctors are keenly aware of these habits, and work hard to help you and your child develop creative solutions to halt that behavior.
Our pediatric dental services improve the health of your child's teeth and gums with:
Dental Surgery, DDS
Dr. John Bishara, DDS was born and raised in Nazareth Israel. His last name, "Bishara" translates to the annunciation, which is the announcement of the incarnation by the angel Gabriel to Mary (Luke 1:26-38).
Dr. Bishara attended Valdosta State University, where he received his Bachelors degree of Science in Biology with honors. He then pursued his education at the University of Detroit Mercy to earn his Doctoral Degree of Dental Surgery, DDS.
Since earning his degrees in 1999, he has been practicing General and Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Bishara spent his first four years practicing dentistry in St. Simons Island before moving to Marietta, Georgia to establish his own practice. In 2010, Dr. John Bishara completed a one year residency at MCG, specializing in dental implants.
Dr. John Bishara has proven to be an exceptional dental practitioner by creating a dental environment perfect for any individual and family, while offering an array of services to meet each of their needs. He takes pride in creating beautiful, confident smiles on a daily basis. Dr. John Bishara is dedicated to a lifelong career in Dentistry by furthering his education in every way possible.
Having served the East Cobb and Mountain Park for years, we know your dental needs are unique and different from your neighbor. That's why we offer a variety of dental services to address each patient's special circumstances, from standard cleanings to complex root canals. By using the latest innovations and techniques in dentistry, we can better serve each client on an individualized level, leading to better comprehensive dental care.
We're taking new patients and accept most major forms of dental insurance to keep your teeth healthy and clean without breaking the bank. Contact our office today to schedule your dental exam and learn more about our history!
770-691-5051
Earth Day is an international holiday on April 22 that recognizes the importance of preserving the environment, celebrating both its practical functions and its natural beauty. This is an ideal time for having some fun outdoors, and one of the best spots you can do that is at a local park.There are more than 60 Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites and 11 national parks in the Peach State. So besides looking at whichever is closest to home, how do you choose which are the best to visit? Tripadvisor has an up-to-date ra...
Earth Day is an international holiday on April 22 that recognizes the importance of preserving the environment, celebrating both its practical functions and its natural beauty. This is an ideal time for having some fun outdoors, and one of the best spots you can do that is at a local park.
There are more than 60 Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites and 11 national parks in the Peach State. So besides looking at whichever is closest to home, how do you choose which are the best to visit? Tripadvisor has an up-to-date ranking of the best-reviewed state parks in Georgia. Here's a look at the best of the best, according to Tripadvisor, and what they have to offer:
1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain
"Stone Mountain Park is Georgia's most visited attraction," said Explore Georgia. "With more than 3,200 acres, the park is a unique destination where guests can experience an exciting variety of attractions, entertainment, and recreation."
The main focal point is the huge, carved mountain that can be hiked up or flown up to in the Skyride. There are 15 miles of hiking trails as well as fishing, kayaking, and paddle board opportunities on Stone Mountain Lake. You can also camp — and "glamp" — on the grounds. There are even some yurts available to rent. The main park has a ton of things-to-do, but one of the biggest attractions is the laser-light show displayed on the side of the mountain.
If you want to celebrate Earth Day early and get a taste of prehistoric fun, Dino Fest is currently at Stone Mountain Park, but only on weekends.
It costs $20 to get into the Stone Mountain area and the family-fun park costs about $40. For more information, go to stonemountainpark.com.
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418 Amicalola Falls State Park Rd, Dawsonville
"Spectacular scenery and hiking trails make Amicalola Falls State Park & Lodge one of Georgia's most popular state parks," said Explore Georgia.
It's home to more than 1,500 acres of mountainous terrain and one of the highest waterfalls in the south at 729 feet. There are diverse walking and hiking trails, with the most popular being the eight-mile Approach Trail leading from the park to Springer Mountain. Zip-lining and 3-D archery are among the attractions. Amicalola is also one of five Georgia State Parks with a lodge and restaurant offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
A parking pass is $5. Camping prices vary, but lodge rooms sit around $200 a night. For more info, go to amicalolafallslodge.com.
7601 Skidaway Rd, Savannah
"A breathtaking avenue sheltered by live oaks and Spanish moss leads to the tabby ruins of Wormsloe, the colonial estate of Noble Jones," said Explore Georgia. "Jones was a humble carpenter who arrived in Georgia in 1733 with James Oglethorpe and the first group of settlers from England. Wormsloe's tabby ruin is the oldest standing structure in Savannah."
There is a museum filled with historic artifacts discovered at Wormsloe. The interpretive nature trail leads past the tabby ruins and long the marsh to the Colonial Life Area. During special events, there are historical interpreters and actors dressed in period-accurate outfits while demonstrating tools and skills of colonial Georgia. Five more miles of nature trails are also available for those who are more adventurous.
Admission is $12 for ages 18-61, $9 for older seniors, $5.75 for ages 6-17, and $3.25 for younger children. For more info, go to gastateparks.org/Wormsloe.
338 Jane Hurt Yarn Rd, Tallulah Falls
"Get ready to be amazed by the beautiful waterfalls, landscape and scenery," said Explore Georgia. "One of the most spectacular canyons in the eastern U.S., Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep."
There are multiple ways to enjoy the views of Tallulah Gorge including a suspension bridge 80 feet high, rim trails to multiple outlooks, and permits are available for those wanting to hike the gorge floor. There is a paved path and a 10-mile trail for mountain bikers. A 63-acre lake nearby features a sandy beach for waterfront fun. The Jane Hurt Yarn Interpretive Center details the area's Victorian history and its complex ecosystem.
A parking pass is $5. For more info, go to gastateparks.org/TallulahGorge.
122 Cloudland Canyon Park Rd, Rising Fawn
"Breathtaking views await," said Explore Georgia. "Located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain, this is one of the most scenic parks in the state, offering rugged geology and beautiful vistas."
There's plenty to see at Cloudland Canyon from thousand-foot deep canyons and caves to sandstone cliffs and waterfalls. Thirty miles of cycling trails are on site with bike available for rent for half and full days, in addition to the 64 miles of hiking trails. Caves can be toured by reservation. Both cottages and yurts are available for more up-scale camping on top of the more than 100 other campsites. There is also disc golf and a fishing pond.
A parking pass is $5. For more info, go to gastateparks.org/CloudlandCanyon.
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While the ones above are Tripadvisor's best, maybe others work better for your outing. Here are the rest of the Georgia State Parks and Historic Sites plus national parks located in Georgia:
What kinds of parks are in your community, state, or country?Have you ever spent time in a park? Maybe you have played in a neighborhood park or taken a road trip to visit a national park. What did the park look like? What kinds of things were there to do?Parks are all around us, from short nature trails to large, mountainous landscapes. There are large national parks across the United States for people to visit and appreciate nature. Some parks have nature trails for hikers, naturally created “swimming holes,” an...
Have you ever spent time in a park? Maybe you have played in a neighborhood park or taken a road trip to visit a national park. What did the park look like? What kinds of things were there to do?
Parks are all around us, from short nature trails to large, mountainous landscapes. There are large national parks across the United States for people to visit and appreciate nature. Some parks have nature trails for hikers, naturally created “swimming holes,” and even gardens where you can learn how to care for different kinds of plants. Most importantly, national parks are meant to preserve and protect wildlife and the naturally created landscapes within them.
Along with protecting wildlife and landscapes, parks also serve as public spaces open to everyone, regardless of background. Ideally, a park should provide a welcoming atmosphere for visitors of all ages, ethnicities, genders, and religions. Stone Mountain Park is owned by the State of Georgia. As you saw in the film, the Confederate Monument carved into the side of the mountain makes some people feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or angry.
Before visiting local parks, it is important to research what the park offers and if you would feel comfortable there. There are lots of places to get started if you’re not sure where your closest park is. You can find books on green spaces and parks in your state at a local library, or you can utilize any of the websites linked below!
Stone Mountain Park is a popular park and natural site within the state of Georgia. With estimates that the granite mountain has been exposed for nearly 15 million years, it can be inferred, or believed from the information known, that Georgia residents and visitors have enjoyed its beauty for hundreds of years. Today, Stone Mountain Park offers attractions for all ages. The park has numerous activities, including a “Summit Skyride” that sends visitors to the top of the mountain and a “Scenic Railroad” that carries passengers around the park.
Though Stone Mountain currently has multiple exciting attractions, the park has not always been a welcoming and comforting place for all visitors. As mentioned in Monument, Stone Mountain’s historic connection with the Ku Klux Klan has made African Americans and other minority visitors feel unsafe while there. Although there are fun, family-friendly things to do at the park, Stone Mountain also carries a difficult and complicated history.
State legislators designated Stone Mountain Park as a memorial to the Confederacy when it was purchased by the state in 1958, but current legislators and activists are pushing a new law that would remove some of the Confederate features of the park.Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) announced on Feb. 13 that it was joining Stone Mountain Action Coalition in the fight to bring awareness to House Bill 794 – which would “repeal the Confederate mandate and, in keeping with the purpose of other state parks, refocus Stone Mounta...
State legislators designated Stone Mountain Park as a memorial to the Confederacy when it was purchased by the state in 1958, but current legislators and activists are pushing a new law that would remove some of the Confederate features of the park.
Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) announced on Feb. 13 that it was joining Stone Mountain Action Coalition in the fight to bring awareness to House Bill 794 – which would “repeal the Confederate mandate and, in keeping with the purpose of other state parks, refocus Stone Mountain Park as a place for outdoor recreation and learning about the natural environment,” according to a news release.
Stone Mountain Action Coalition’s website added that the bill that designated the park as a Confederate memorial required the park to sell Confederate memorabilia to stay in place, and that the park is still required to sell such memorabilia – something Amazon, Walmart, and other national retailers have forbade.
Stone Mountain Action Coalition officials said the changes—which could start with House Bill 794—would do more than make the park more inclusive. The coalition’s website references the protests and marches that have temporarily closed the park and some Stone Mountain businesses in the past and how the park’s current state can be a burden to the community.
In July 2020, more than 100 demonstrators armed with weapons entered the park to challenge White supremacy groups that were protesting there. The park then closed temporarily in August 2020, and the Georgia National Guard was deployed due to a planned White supremacy rally.
Stone Mountain Action Coalition’s website states that the August 2020 closure diverted the protesting groups to Stone Mountain Village and forced some businesses to temporarily close. Additionally, city of Stone Mountain issued a warning asking the public to avoid downtown that day and notifying residents that MARTA suspended services within the city limits for the same day.
Officials from Stone Mountain Action Coalition stated that the park also flies Confederate battle flags over the most popular trail and has “more than 10 streets and features named after Confederate and Ku Klux Klan figures.”
Their website states that the removal of these monuments, memorabilia, and other names would also present a “reflective view of history that is increasingly common at other Southern sites.”
Additionally, the group is calling for Stone Mountain Memorial Association to make all monthly board hearings public, initiate a community engagement project regarding the park, and to issue an anti-racism statement to deter future protests at the park.
In a tradition that spans over seven decades, the Stone Mountain Park is gearing up to host its annual Easter Sunrise Service this Sunday, offering two simultaneous and interdenominational services, as reported by 11Alive. The revered event draws inspiration from a 1944 initiative by Lucille A. Lanford, a member of the Stone Mountain First United Methodist C...
In a tradition that spans over seven decades, the Stone Mountain Park is gearing up to host its annual Easter Sunrise Service this Sunday, offering two simultaneous and interdenominational services, as reported by 11Alive. The revered event draws inspiration from a 1944 initiative by Lucille A. Lanford, a member of the Stone Mountain First United Methodist Church, who led the church's youth group to the mountaintop to witness the break of dawn on Easter.
For those planning to partake in the experience, gates are set to open at 3 a.m. on the morning of the service, with the Summit Skyride beginning operations at 4 a.m. to ferry attendees to the summit. Park officials recommend an early arrival to beat the influx of the faithful flock. A vehicle entry fee of $20 for a one-day permit, or $40 for an annual pass will be collected, however, church vans and buses are given a free pass, according to information from FOX 5 Atlanta. Those preferring to hike can access the trail leading up the mountain at no additional charge.
The services are slated to commence at 7 a.m. and will be marshaled by special guests. Bryant Wright, founder and chairman of Right from the Heart Ministries and a noted figure in international media ministry, along with Crawford Loritts, president and founder of Beyond Our Generation, will take the helm, delivering poignant messages to the congregation gathered at the mountain's pinnacle.
Attendees after the spiritual morning can extend their stay to enjoy the park's family-friendly attractions and recreational offerings, with no extra fees for those simply wanting to soak in the nature and festivities. As for those opting for a lift to the peak, the round-trip Skyride is tagged at $20, and $15 for one way, per the details from FOX 5 Atlanta. The park also offers a flat rate Attractions Ticket for those interested in the other amenities.
Both FOX 5 Atlanta and 11Alive are set to provide coverage of the Easter Sunrise Service for those unable to attend in person, guaranteeing that this beloved event's reach goes well beyond the scenic confines of Stone Mountain Park.
Stone Mountain Park is hosting its highly anticipated 55th annual Yellow Daisy Festival from Sept. 7-10.Featuring more than 400 artists from across the United States, this festival has earned recognition as one of the nation's top arts and crafts shows, according to Sunshine Artist Magazine. It's also a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event and has received multiple awards from the Southeast Festival and Events Association. The event has become a tradition for multi-generational shoppers seeking unique handcrafted works of art....
Stone Mountain Park is hosting its highly anticipated 55th annual Yellow Daisy Festival from Sept. 7-10.
Featuring more than 400 artists from across the United States, this festival has earned recognition as one of the nation's top arts and crafts shows, according to Sunshine Artist Magazine. It's also a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event and has received multiple awards from the Southeast Festival and Events Association. The event has become a tradition for multi-generational shoppers seeking unique handcrafted works of art.
One exciting addition to this year's festival is the return of the Yellow Daisy Vintage Village. Located within the lower meadow of the Yellow Daisy Festival, this curated village of vendors will showcase antiques, vintage collectibles, and an array of farmhouse chic home goods, furniture, and décor.
The festival derives its name from a special type of yellow daisy, Viguiera Porteri, which blooms in September and only grows within a 60-mile radius of Stone Mountain. This unique flower was first discovered in 1846 and is known for its vibrant yellow bands that adorn the granite outcroppings of the mountain.
What began as a modest event in two picnic pavilions has now grown into the Southeast's largest outdoor arts and crafts festival, occupying more than six acres with art, crafts, music, and food.
Artists and crafters selected to participate in the festival are chosen by the Yellow Daisy Festival jury based on their distinctive handmade work in various categories, including pottery, fabric, painting, jewelry, sculpture, fiber, photography, fine arts, and traditional arts and crafts.
Throughout the four-day event, visitors can enjoy live entertainment on the main stage, featuring a diverse range of music genres, from Rock and Bluegrass to Pop, R&B, Country, Gospel, and DJs. For those looking to relax, a beer garden will be available, along with numerous food trucks and festival food options to satisfy any cravings.
The festival isn't just for adults; the next generation of festivalgoers can partake in activities like sand art, face painting, and balloon artistry.
Located in the park's Special Events Meadow, admission to the festival is free with paid parking, which costs $20 for a one-day permit or $40 for an unlimited annual parking pass.
Festival dates and hours are as follows:
For more information about the Yellow Daisy Festival, please visit the Yellow Daisy Festival Frequently Asked Questions website. Stone Mountain Park, listed in Frommer's 500 Places to Visit with Your Kids Before They Grow Up and recognized by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution as one of "35 Natural Wonders in Georgia You Must See Before You Die," is located 15 miles east of downtown Atlanta. For directions, information about attractions, and hours of operation, please call 1-800-401-2407 or visit .
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